Ray Lewis, one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history, will retire from the Baltimore Ravens once they are finished with their current playoff run, the team announced Thursday. Lewis is finishing up the injury-hampered 17th season of his illustrious career.

"This will be my last ride," Lewis told the team, via a team statement on Twitter.

It's been quite a ride for Lewis since he was drafted in the first round of the 1996 NFL Draft to play middle and inside linebacker. He has gone to 13 Pro Bowls and been named to seven All-Pro teams. He helped the Ravens win their only championship after the 2000 season, named MVP of the Super Bowl XXXV victory over the New York Giants.

The Ravens are making their fifth consecutive trip to the playoffs this season, and it's uncertain how much Lewis will be able to play in Sunday's home wild-card game against the Indianapolis Colts. He has been working his way back from a torn triceps that was initially thought to be a season-ending injury.

No matter how far the Ravens go in the playoffs, Lewis' stellar career accomplishments make him a lock for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. In addition to his 1,573 tackles, 41½ sacks, 31 interceptions and 19 forced fumbles, he earned Associated Press Defensive Player of the Year honors twice, in both 2000 and '03. Many consider him to be the best inside/middle linebacker the game has seen since Chicago Bears legend Dick Butkus.

Another part of Lewis' legacy is how he has lifted the play of his teammates as a fiery leader, both with his actions and words on the field.

"I wanted to make men better," Lewis said. "I wanted to figure out a way to challenge men to not let the game dictate your emotions."

While Lewis' tackling and playmaking abilities may no longer be the same at age 37, he still has persevered as one of the most passionate players professional football has ever seen.